símum

Símum is a term that appears in Old Norse literature, most notably in the Prose Edda and the Poetic Edda. It is generally understood to refer to a type of magical practice or enchantment. The exact nature and scope of símum are not explicitly defined, leading to various interpretations among scholars.

The word itself is thought to be related to words meaning "to sing" or "to chant," suggesting a connection to vocal magic or incantations. In some contexts, símum might imply the use of runes or other symbols in conjunction with spoken words to achieve a desired effect. The practice is often associated with figures who possess magical knowledge or power, such as sorceresses or gods.

The references to símum in the Eddas are often brief and allusive, making it challenging to reconstruct a comprehensive understanding of its role in Norse cosmology or daily life. It is sometimes mentioned alongside other forms of seiðr (sejd), another complex magical tradition in Norse culture, further highlighting its connection to the supernatural and esoteric practices of the time. The precise distinction between símum and other magical arts remains a subject of ongoing scholarly debate.